PipeMedic™ laminates

Using a combination of unidirectional and/or biaxial fabrics, the laminates provide strength in both longitudinal and transverse directions. The range of the tensile strength of PipeMedic laminates is 60—155 ksi (415—1070 MPa). 

The number and pattern of the layers of fabrics in PipeMedic laminates can be adjusted to produce an endless array of customized products that can significantly save construction time and money. 

Figure 3.5 PipeMedic laminates may be constmeted with multiple layers of unidirectional or biaxial fabrics.

The laminates are particularly suited for repair of smaller pipes where man entry is not possible. Such pipes operating under high pressure are frequently found in the oil and gas industries. The first field application of PipeMedic laminates to repair a gas pipe received the 2011 Trenchless Technology Project of the Year Award (Bueno, 2011). The design considerations and applications of these laminates are best described by introducing the reader to this unique project. 

GTI also constructed and tested samples for 6- and 12-in (150 and 300 mm)-diameter steel pipes that are shown in Figure 3.8. These pipes were repaired with a more flexible biaxial glass PipeMedic laminate that could be inserted in these smaller pipes. All of those tests were also successful the results are available to GTI-affiliate member organizations for potential similar applications worldwide. 

Figure 3.8 (a) Test setup, (b) close-up view of instrumentation, and (c) measured strains for a steel pipe retrofitted with PipeMedic laminate and tested at Gas Technology Institute. 

Figure 3.6 PipeMedic glass and carbon laminate sheets are up to 60 in (1.5 m) wide and are flexible for insertion in small-diameter pipes.

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